Do's and Donts at Marriage Interview

If you have applied to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States through marriage to a US citizen, then you need to attend a marriage interview for green card with the USCIS. The interview usually takes place from 6 to 12 months after your application. The interview is conducted to avoid fraudulent relationships that were created just to obtain permanent residency.

It is important for you and your spouse to properly prepare for your marriage interview for green card. You could experience a delay in the approval of your case if you do not answer the questions properly. Worse yet, your application might be denied if you do not present the proper information at the interview. Take time to go through your application and the documents before the interview.

Dos and Donts at the Immigration interview:

When going for the marriage interview green card, you must know what are the things you must follow and what to avoid to be successful in the interview. Below are some of the Dos and Donts which you need to be aware of when you attend the interview.

The DOs:

• DO take time and prepare for the interview. Bring copies all of your forms and all your document originals. You should be able to respond to questions without referencing and confusion.

• DO answer personal questions related to your marriage to a U.S. citizen.

• DO follow the instructions of the interview. If the officer wants to interview you and your spouse separately, do not hesitate.

• DO answer only the question that is asked.

• DO dress appropriately for the interview because good impression speaks.

• DO remain calm. If you do not understand the question you may ask the officer to rephrase it. If you do not know the answer for the question, it is better to admit than to lie.

• DO show up on time. If you fail to show up for your interview, you may have to go across a a lengthy process to get another interview.

The DONTs:

• DONT joke around with an USCIS officer. The impression you create makes a difference in the interview process.

• DONT argue with your spouse or any other family members who has accompanied you in the middle of the interview. It is better to discuss with your family member, on any issues you disagree with, before the interview.

• DONT argue with the USCIS officer. If the USCIS officer says your application is incomplete or is incorrect, you may ask the USCIS officer politely what is missing and you may provide the documents you carry with you to provide a solution to the situation.

• DONT lose your patience with the USCIS officer and refuse to answer questions which seem unimportant or inappropriate. These questions are probably within the boundaries on the USCIS policy. Answer the questions calmly.

• DONT lie to the USCIS officer. If you try to lie to the USCIS office, it might lead to denial of your application. Always tell the truth and be prepared beforehand. If you feel you will not be able to handle the situation you may then hire a lawyer who will be able to explain the situation well.

Author's Bio: 

Official USCIS and Immigration Forms provided for download online. The USCIS was formerly known as the INS. Complete list of all USCIS and Immigration Form.